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Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Recipe

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

iamwinfred
Fresh asparagus spears are wrapped in seasoned bacon and air fried until the bacon is perfectly crispy and the asparagus is tender with a pleasant bite. This easy, low-carb dish comes together in about 20 minutes with minimal cleanup, making it an impressive side dish for both weeknight dinners and holiday tables.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer Basket large enough to lay bundles flat, preferably with a wide tray
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Kitchen tongs Silicone tipped locking tongs recommended for easy flipping
  • Mixing bowl
  • Air fryer parchment liners Perforated liners catch drippings while allowing air circulation (optional)
  • Instant-read meat thermometer Optional, for ensuring bacon is cooked through

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus spears about 20 to 24 spears, medium thickness
  • 9 slices regular cut bacon not thick cut
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Rinse asparagus and pat completely dry. Snap off woody ends by bending each spear until it breaks naturally.
  • Toss trimmed asparagus in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  • Divide asparagus into 8 bundles of 2-3 spears each. Wrap one slice of bacon around each bundle in a diagonal spiral, tucking the loose end underneath.
  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Arrange bundles in a single layer, seam side down, with space between each for air circulation.
  • Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and asparagus is tender.
  • Let rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with parmesan and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Asparagus Selection: Choose medium thickness spears. Pencil-thin spears overcook before bacon crisps, while very thick spears may need extra cook time.
  • Bacon Choice: Regular cut bacon works best. Thick cut requires longer cooking and may leave asparagus overdone or bacon undercrisped.
  • Air Fryer Space: Never overcrowd the basket. Bundles that touch or overlap trap steam and prevent crispy bacon. Cook in batches if needed.
  • Dry Asparagus Is Key: Pat spears completely dry before seasoning. Any moisture creates steam and prevents proper crisping.
  • Extra Crispy Bacon: For additional crispiness, add 1-2 extra minutes at the end rather than increasing temperature, which can burn the seasoning.
  • Flavor Variations: Swap smoked paprika for cayenne pepper for heat, brush with maple syrup for sweet-savory, or use prosciutto instead of bacon.
  • Make Ahead: Wrap bundles up to a day in advance and refrigerate covered. Cook fresh for best texture.
  • Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving.
  • Keto Friendly: Naturally low-carb. Skip the maple syrup variation if strictly tracking carbs.
  • Serving Ideas: Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks, as a side with roast chicken or steak, or alongside mashed potatoes or quinoa.

Nutrition

Serving: 2bundlesCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 10gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 280mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 6mg
Keyword air fryer asparagus, bacon wrapped asparagus, easy holiday side dish, keto vegetable recipe, low carb side dish
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